Tips for residents to prevent delays in getting FEMA units

BATON ROUGE – Louisiana flood victims can help prevent delays in the process of getting a Manufactured Housing Unit from FEMA.

If residents are eligible for an MHU and have applied, FEMA will contact the applicant for a site inspection if they want to place the unit on their property.

Below are steps to help prevent delays:

- Be available.You must be present for a site inspection. FEMA will arrange to place an MHU on your property if the agency determines it is feasible. A FEMA representative will provide information during the inspection process so you can contact them if you have questions about the status of your MHU.

- Contact your power company to install a second service and meter on your property. Your parish or city will then inspect the installation and notify the power company that power may be turned on. Tell the power company it is for a FEMA MHU installation.

- Help FEMA obtain right-of-entry from your neighbors. FEMA may need permission to trench utility lines or gain access to the site.

If defects are found in the air conditioner, water, lighting, toilets, or other parts of the unit, FEMA must repair them before giving the resident the keys. FEMA will also arrange for safety modifications such as elevation and anchoring.

Manufactured Housing Units are a last resort for survivors whose primary home is not livable, have uninsured housing needs and have no practicable temporary housing options within a reasonable commuting distance.

FEMA has expanded its services to accommodate questions about MHUs. Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. You may also visit the closest disaster recovery center by going online to fema.gov/drc.